TSIA Target

Our TSIA target scores increased from 12% 1o 15% for Cohort 2028 and from 3% to 6% for Cohort 2029. Over 100 scholars participated in TSIA  Week.

College Tours- CCMR 

We also hosted our very first out-of-state college tour to Oklahoma. We took 50 scholars to visit both Langston University and Oklahoma State University earlier this week. Both institutions do offer residency exemption options, so if scholars would like to attend, they would qualify for in-state tuition. 

Southern University 

Southern University visited our campus this week to meet with our scholars in Grades 10-12. Some scholars who attended were offered admissions on-site. Several band members also auditioned for the Band Director, and some were offered scholarships. 

Dallas County Promise Leaders Meeting 

Participation in the DCP Leaders Meeting and the TSI Community of Practice focus group strengthened our team’s capacity to implement the DCP 9–11th grade initiative with greater fidelity and impact. Through these sessions, our team analyzed evidence-based practices, identified implementation gaps, and refined strategies to better align instructional practices with student readiness benchmarks.

TSI Community of Practice 

 The TSI Community of Practice also provided targeted instructional strategies and research-informed resources to support data-driven interventions that increase student performance on college-readiness indicators. As a result, our team is better positioned to monitor progress, adjust implementation strategies, and accelerate student outcomes across key readiness metrics.

Advanced Academics/ GT 

The Advanced Academics and Gifted & Talented Department is proud to report growth across all categories of the 2025 College Board AP District Honor Roll, reflecting continued districtwide progress in access to advanced coursework, student participation, and college-readiness outcomes.

Key Recognition

• DeSoto High School received:

  • Silver Medal – College Culture

  • Gold Medal – College Optimization

These honors recognize the district’s success in expanding equitable access to Advanced Placement coursework while supporting students in earning qualifying AP exam scores and college credit.

The two-week period began on Monday, January 20, in observance of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day. City Year Dallas partnered with The Meadows Elementary School for a campus service project focused on beautification and learning environment enhancements. More than 20 City Year volunteers supported the campus by re-striping asphalt playground games, assisting Principal Hicks with organizing and updating the campus data wall, and completing front-office and exterior beautification projects. This collaboration reinforced strong community partnerships, campus pride, and a welcoming environment for students and families.

On Tuesday, I participated in an Executive Leadership meeting with Dr. Rodgers, followed by targeted campus follow-ups from the prior week to ensure continuity of support and alignment with district priorities. In the afternoon, I met with Ms. Bostic and Ms. Harden to review Title I requirements and campus readiness in preparation for the upcoming principals’ meeting. The day concluded with participation in the DeSoto ISD Business School Board Meeting.

Wednesday began at Cockrell Hill Elementary School with our final i-Ready Middle-of-Year data meeting. During this session, Principal Lowe reaffirmed her commitment to maintaining a laser focus on increasing student achievement and closely monitoring academic growth. The afternoon included participation in Chief Business Officer candidate interviews and addressing campus-based parent concerns to ensure timely communication and resolution.

Thursday started at West Middle School, where I worked alongside Principal Strickland and Assistant Principal Jones to strengthen teacher support plans focused on improving instructional practices and ensuring campus success. Later that afternoon, I participated in a Q2 Quarterly Grant Report alignment review with district program managers to ensure documentation accurately reflected the supports and services provided across campuses. The day concluded with a Principals’ Meeting that included a message from Dr. Rodgers, guidance on front-office de-escalation strategies for campus secretaries and principals, a district technology plan update, and a deep dive into student attendance data with strategies to improve ADA.

The following week, Monday through Wednesday, were spent working remotely as district leadership closely monitored inclement weather conditions. Virtual meetings were held to assess forecasts, coordinate campus readiness, and ensure operational continuity. Despite weather-related disruptions, critical timelines and deliverables remained on track, and district operations continued without interruption.

Upon returning to campuses on Thursday, I conducted site visits to ensure staff and teachers were present and prepared to support student learning. The highest area of need was identified at the high school, where I spent half of the day assisting with cafeteria supervision and student transitions to maintain a safe, orderly environment and uninterrupted instruction. Thursday afternoon was spent at McCowan Middle School supporting Principal Boston-Smith with the collection and review of documentation related to a parent claim, ensuring accuracy and alignment with district protocols.

This week concluded on Friday with participation in Chief Business Officer interviews, follow-up on Title I tutoring to ensure appropriate procurement was in compliance, and parent communications to close outstanding concerns. These efforts reinforced our commitment to strong school-home partnerships, responsiveness, and continuous improvement in support of campuses and students.

Finance (CONSTRAINT 2)

District Revenues for FY26

 as of January 30, 2026

Maintenance & Operations General Fund (199)

• Local Revenue (57XX): $24,712,343

• State Revenue Available School Funds (5811): $1,142,120

• Foundation School Program (5812): $14,481,090

• TRS On-Behalf (5831): $1,334,112

• SHARS (5931): $0.00

• Indirect Cost (5929-ID): $94,069

• JROTC (5949): $80,995

Child Nutrition (240)

Local

• Lunch Revenue (5751): $19,655

State

• $15,755

Federal

• • School Breakfast Program (5921): 852,807

  • National Lunch Program (5922): $1,134,640

  • Federal Distributed by State (5939): $156,339

Debt Service (I&S) Fund (511)

Local Tax Collections (5711/12/18/19/42): $13,184,120

State Program Revenues  (5829): $6,461,941

Bond Interest Income 

698-5742:  $811,934

Human Capital Management

Substitute Fill Rate:         73%

Resignations:                       1

• Teacher - 1

  • McCowan Middle School

Terminations:                       0

Substitute and New 

Hire Onboardings:                1

Grievances                           1

• Level III: Hearing decision provided to the grievant, and a former employee has requested to go to Level III.  

  • • Termination  

Investigations:                       6

NAVEX Incident Reporting Summary:

1.21.2026

Student Safety

DeSoto High School

The report states that, during a casual conversation, the reporting party was told that an individual had been “popping” kids. The reporting party indicated they were unsure of where the alleged incidents occurred or the validity of the information shared. 

Board Notification was sent January 22, 2026.

1.22.2026

Substance Abuse

The Meadows Elementary

An employee reported that another staff member smelled of alcohol, and the concern was immediately relayed to the assistant principal, Human Capital Management, and the DeSoto Police Department, who responded to the campus to transport the employee for testing.

01.22.2026

Employee Misconduct

Desoto High School

A video showing a teacher using inappropriate language toward a student was reported on January 22, prompting required misconduct reporting and an administrative leave meeting scheduled for January 23.

Student & Staff Support Services

• Athletics

  • Working on reducing the budget by 10%

  • Developing booster and sponsorship protocols.

  • Coordinating with other districts on rescheduling games missed due to the weather.

• Attendance

  • Planning for the upcoming CassiaK12 campaign.

  • Screening selective enrollment applications.

  • Planning meeting with Concentric about staff professional development.

  • Stronger Connections Team meeting.

  • Grant meeting Federal Programs Manager.

• Child Nutrition

  • Remotely monitored coolers/freezers and dispatched maintenance crews to know problems.

  • Visited campuses that were reporting safety concerns due to the ice.

  • Completed the Whitsons scorecard for their review.

  • Met with Mr. Carter about TDA yearly budget submission.

  • Region 10 call regarding food service during the closure.

• Fine Arts

  • Launched the DeSoto ISD Fine Arts Hub,  a one-stop internal resource designed specifically for our Fine Arts staff.

  • Analyzed and created a budget plan for spring competitions

• Health Services

  • Facilitated training for First Student Bus monitors.

  • First professional development for upcoming staff development day.

• Parent Engagement

  • Developed training for principals.

  • Collaborated with district PTA council, specifically Mrs. Weaver.

• Student Support

  • Worked with plant services about icing/freezing at the district campuses.

  • Participated in the daily Weathering Monitoring Calls with other district personnel.

  • Meeting with T.E.A. regarding Other Special Students (OSP).

  • Assisted Human Capital with personnel issues.

Communications

Communications

DeSoto ISD Communications Department – Weekly Summary

This week, the DeSoto ISD Communications Department played a critical role in district operations, stakeholder engagement, and strategic communications.

The team was on the front lines of inclement weather management, actively monitoring weather reports and coordinating with internal departments and external school communications partners. Communications staff supported district leadership by providing timely information for weather-related decision-making and by ensuring all inclement-weather messaging was drafted, approved, and deployed efficiently. Communications were tailored and delivered to all stakeholder groups, including the Board of Trustees, district leadership and staff, students and families, the broader community, and media outlets.

The team also addressed a social media concern by developing coordinated parent and staff notifications and working closely with district security and area law enforcement to ensure accurate, responsible, and timely communication.

In addition, Communications drafted and issued a formal resolution and condolence notice in honor of the late father of Trustee Abe Cooper Jr., ensuring appropriate recognition and sensitivity. The department supported a campus academic recognition by preparing and disseminating messaging through Board communications and the district newsroom.

Progress continued on strategic storytelling initiatives with the advancement of a student and staff spotlight series. This initiative is designed to shift district narratives in a positive direction by highlighting individuals who exemplify purpose, resilience, integrity, determination, empathy, and excellence. Initial installments were shared this week, marking a key step toward broader deployment.

The department is also supporting the development of communications related to UIL classification and the future of district athletics in collaboration with the Superintendent and the Director of Athletics, following media inquiries received last week.

Ongoing efforts included continued promotion and support of the district’s annual Hall of Honor initiative. The team trained and oriented the selection committee and actively promoted the nomination and submission process.

Additionally, Communications began designing and preparing to deploy a subsequent school choice marketing campaign in response to the extension of the application window through February 13.

The team also ideated and developed creative concepts for upcoming affinity and recognition efforts, including National School Counseling Week, Black History Month, and National Career and Technical Education (CTE) Month.

Finally, the department continued working through a backlog of video content related to trustee spotlight features and will continue distributing these pieces as the final spotlights are completed.

.

Technology 

Technology Modernization Overview 

In alignment with DeSoto ISD’s commitment to digital transformation, we are implementing a comprehensive district-wide technology modernization strategy designed to: 

• Enhance learning experiences 

• Strengthen campus safety 

• Improve operational efficiency 

This multi-faceted initiative underscores our dedication to purposeful innovation and operational excellence. 

 Key Initiatives 

1.  Interactive Screen Reenforment
   Starting Monday January 19th.  ProComputing will be reinforcing flat panel screens starting with Cockrell Hill. 

2.  Student Laptop Upgrades
   With Windows 10 support ending in October 2025, student laptops are being upgraded to Windows 11-compatible models—prioritizing high schools and aging inventory—to ensure optimal performance and access to modern learning tools. 

3.  Campus Digital Signage
   Real-time communication is being enhanced through digital signage installations in front offices, cafeterias, libraries, and athletic facilities. Displays will deliver alerts, event schedules, and student recognition, centrally managed for consistency. 

4.  Email Threat Intelligence
   Abnormal Security Weekly Update (Jan 5–11, 2026) 

Abnormal Security detected 496 email-based attacks targeting DeSoto ISD during the past week, bringing the total since integration to 40,064. This reflects an increase of 236 attacks compared to the previous week, signaling a renewed upward trend after the holiday dip. For detailed analysis and recommendations, please visit the Abnormal Security Portal.

5.   Security Camera Enhancements
   Upgrades to high-definition IP cameras include night vision, motion detection, and law enforcement integration. AI-driven features under review include facial recognition, license plate readers, and behavioral analytics.

6.  Document Management System Review
   Enterprise-grade solutions are being evaluated to centralize records and streamline collaboration. Key criteria include FERPA/HIPAA compliance, accessibility, and automation. Stakeholder input is being gathered through pilots and demonstrations. 

7.  Bond-Funded Technology Projects (Pending Approval)
   Strategic upgrades include: 

• Chromebook and laptop deployment 

• AV systems for stadiums, gyms, and boardroom 

• Emergency notification and paging systems 

• Baseball field technology (sound and livestreaming) 

• Smart lockdown systems with AI threat detection 

• Expanded security camera coverage

8.  Network Infrastructure Update
   A comprehensive plan is underway to optimize switch configurations and refine network routing protocols. These improvements will strengthen security, reduce latency, and maximize bandwidth utilization—ensuring resilient connectivity and supporting the district’s growing reliance on cloud-based applications. 

9.  E-rate Assessment and Inventory 

A detailed Network Inventory and Assessment is actively underway, specifically focused on gathering the required data and documentation for the upcoming E-rate application process. This assessment involves a comprehensive review of all existing network infrastructure, hardware, and configurations to ensure compliance and accurate reporting for potential funding. 

10.  Help Desk Performance 

• Tickets Submitted: 27

• Tickets Resolved: 52

• Average Resolution Time: 34.6 minutes

• Average Satisfaction Rating: 4.6/5

These results highlight our ongoing commitment to responsive support and continuous improvement, ensuring timely resolutions and consistently high customer satisfaction.

11.  Phone System Update
    Following a review of modern phone systems to support unified communications, mobile integration, panic button features, and emergency notification compatibility, Zoom has been selected as the district’s new phone service provider. This decision was made after completing pilot programs and evaluating all recommendations. 

12.  Infrastructure & Wireless
    A new wireless network, DISD-Internet SSID, is actively being tested to ensure full functionality, with the goal of replacing older SSIDs. 

Our Commitment 

Through strategic upgrades, cloud-based tools, and expanded digital access, DeSoto ISD is: 

• Empowering students with confidence 

• Equipping staff with efficient tools 

• Creating safe, innovative learning environments 

These efforts reflect our enduring values of integrity, determination, and excellence. 

Maintenance & Operations

Here is the list of work accomplished for the week of January 19-23, 2026. A total of 113 work orders were completed, and 5 remain in progress in the system.

Maintenance

• LG systems at Early College - Ongoing

• Still working on the generator at McCowan

• Still working on the awning for the cooling tubs at Ben Dial

• Finished painting walls and took out carpet in the 2100 classroom at High School

• Put out ice melt at all campuses

• Walked campus

Water leak at the High School Cafeteria, and contractors will be out today to fix the roof leak

Grounds

• • Mowing and weed-eating around the district

  • Will clean out storage behind Admin

Here is the list of work accomplished this January 26-30, 2026. A total of 113 work orders were completed, and 5 remain in progress in the system.

Maintenance

• LG systems at Early College - Ongoing

• Still working on the generator at McCowan

• Still working on the awning for cooling tubs at Ben Dial

• Finished painting walls and took out carpet in the 2100 classroom at High School

• Put out ice melt at all campuses

• Walked campus

  • Water leak at the High School Cafeteria, and contractors will be out to fix the roof leak

Grounds

• Mowing and weed-eating around the district

• Will clean out storage behind Admin